THE LONDON FAITH & BELIEF COMMUNITY AWARDS 2019 Celebrating the unsung heroes of London's faith and belief communities

With the support of Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Greater London’s Council on Faith WELCOME

The content of this brochure gives an insight into a much bigger story. London’s diverse and vibrant population powers 24,000 voluntary organisations. That is 1 for every 360 Londoners. Many of these initiatives are working through values shared by people of different faiths and non-religious beliefs. This is worthy of celebration in itself, since it demonstrates how much we have in common. It underlines the notion that our diversity is not the problem we face. The work of those highlighted in this brochure demonstrates the deep, generous pool of diverse creativity that Londoners can draw on to tackle a wide range of societal issues. And herein lies the second cause for celebration. The projects and individuals on show here are tackling issues that have the potential to exclude and divide. If we are to truly extend the benefits of our city to all, then we need to ensure fair access to services, improve health and well-being, alleviate deprivation, promote inter-faith relations, and inspire the next generation of Londoners. This year we are also shining a light on the achievements of women from all walks of life and backgrounds, and on peace and reconciliation given the rise of hate crime and continued polarisation in the wake of the EU referendum three years ago. The fact that so many relatively small and modest organisations made up of people of different faiths and non-religious beliefs collaborate to achieve so much gives hope and inspiration. This evening we are recognising and celebrating the contribution lesser- known projects are making to ensuring London is a more inclusive and a fairer city. We are honoured to host the third London Faith & Belief Community Awards with the continued support of Her Majesty’s Lord- Lieutenant of Greater London’s Council on Faith, to shine a light on those who do not receive sufficient recognition for the important work they do at the margins of our great city. We are proud that now over 300 projects and individuals have been recognised for their selfless work. May the examples of these inspiring projects motivate and challenge us. Phil Champain Director of the Faith & Belief Forum

3 In terms of diversity of background and It has been a pleasure for me to be MESSAGES culture, London is one of the richest Chair of the Judging Panel. The panel cities in the world. It boasts many sizable comprised of four members of the Council communities coming from every corner of on Faith: Babulal Sethia DL, Dr Sheila OF SUPPORT the globe. For many of these communities, Gewolb DL, Dr Mustafa Abu Lisan DL their faith or belief is their cultural fountain and me, joined by Ben Shapiro, Siobhán and a source of their identity – representing Anderson and Ianthi Stergiou from F&BF. I wish to extend a warm welcome to all to the London universal core principles that are shared The judging panel received 128 completed Faith & Belief Community Awards. As the Lord- across all faith and belief systems. Our nominations by the deadline of 15th Lieutenant of Greater London, I am Her Majesty The aspiration at the Council on Faith is to July 2019. We had a couple of weeks Queen’s representative in Greater London, charged harness these values and reach out to all of to scrutinise the nomination forms with upholding the dignity of the Crown. I have over those who have made London their home. and complete a judging grid. The grid 100 Deputy Lieutenants, who, like me, are volunteers. By supporting the London Faith & Belief assessed each submission on three I have 32 Representative Deputy Lieutenants, one Community Awards, we gain the opportunity criteria based on increasing sense of for each London Borough, providing a vital link to meet and engage with those who have belonging, building bridges and impact. with local communities across the capital. made it their mission to increase wellbeing within their local community, help individuals The judging panel met on 18th September In addition, we are a bridge-builder, connecting individuals, build a sense of belonging within London 2019 and discussed each submission organisations and social networks, to enhance Londoners’ and build bridges across communities of against the criteria. It was a humbling sense of belonging and thereby increasing social all faiths and beliefs. The London Faith & and enlightening experience to read and inclusion within the capital. Through its rich heritage Belief Community Awards is a wonderful discuss the nomination forms. The projects and diverse population, London is home to many faith demonstration of what people motivated by were diverse, from across most London groups from every religion. As The Queen said in her 50th their faith or belief can achieve for this city. boroughs and helping different groups. Christmas broadcast in 2001: ‘we all have something By shining a light on their work, this event There was great uniformity amongst the to learn from each other, whatever our faith’, because promotes and connects the unsung heroes 7 judges. We were able to agree the 40 living life according to a strong set of positive values is of London’s faith and belief communities. projects to be awarded and 52 projects an antidote to exclusion. Overcoming differences and This event also gives them access to recognised for their good work. The misunderstandings, reducing prejudice, ignorance and further support which may enhance their nominations this year also identified 21 fear, and learning the ethical lessons of the widest range work and inspire others to take action. individuals who will be recognised under the of faiths and beliefs are objectives enshrined in our Inspiring Individuals category – and tonight strategy Building Bridges for a fairer London. In that spirit, At last year’s event we were bowled we will be awarding their work through we recognise and celebrate the work of Londoners from over by the number of inspirational certification. I would like to thank my fellow all faiths and beliefs who create a sense of belonging dedicated selfless people we came judges for their hard work and support. and inclusion in our great city. Thank you to you all. across who are doing the most amazing Congratulations to all who are celebrated and innovative things. It was an Sir Kenneth Olisa OBE and recognised at tonight’s event. honour to meet those behind London’s The Lord-Lieutenant of Greater London inspirational community projects and Mrs Bushra Nasir CBE DL learn from their work. I look forward to Chair of the Judging Panel continuing the conversation this year. The London Faith & Belief Community Awards is primarily about celebration and recognition, and I am honoured that tonight we have the opportunity to celebrate over 120 projects and individuals. On behalf of Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Greater London’s Council on Faith, I look forward to supporting this event further and to meeting many more of London’s unsung heroes as the initiative grows. Dr David Dangoor DL Chair of Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Greater London’s Council on Faith

4 5 Award Winners

PROGRAMME HEALTH AND The hosts of tonight’s ceremony are Paraskevi Koumi Programmes Officer, Schools, at the Faith & Belief Forum and Rev Nims Obunge MBE, WELLBEING Pastor of Freedom’s Ark Church, Tottenham. Sponsored by The Penny Appeal Key note address Sir Kenneth Olisa OBE, Her Majesty’s Projects in this category create specialised services for Lord-Lieutenant of Greater London the health and wellbeing of Londoners. They reduce social isolation and improve quality of life for vulnerable London Presentation of awards from different backgrounds.

Closing speech Dr David Dangoor DL, Chair of Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Greater London’s Council on Faith

Refreshments and Networking in the Atrium

6 7 British Islamic Medical Chizuk Growbaby and Association (BIMA) Hackney Kingston Vineyard Newham Chizuk promotes Mental Wellbeing in the Kingston Charedi Community. They were created BIMA is a democratic, independent, In 2003, Growbaby started out as a in 1996 to help those with mental health grassroots organisation for Muslim local project providing free baby clothes problems in the follow-up to Community healthcare professionals in the UK, and equipment regardless of income, Care legislation. They support their clients founded in 2013. In addition to supporting faith or background. Now a huge by mediating with Health Provision, Muslim professionals in the workplace, number of outreach support projects both in and out of hospital; and with we work with volunteers across London are run out of the space, these include other statutory bodies and by sourcing to deliver 'Livesafers' training and run a breast feeding drop in, a “skills for translators who can support the families. public health campaigns such as Cancer life” group for young parents, English They also offer drop-in services and Screening Awareness Campaign where we classes and parenting classes. activities such as art and drama groups. delivered talks to in excess of 1000 people www.kingstonvineyard.co.uk/growbaby nationally. This included 43 mosques as well as 5 local radio stations. Christian Kitchen www.bima.org London Non-Religious Waltham Forest Pastoral Care Team The Christian Kitchen is a charity provision Caritas St Joseph's set up over 25 years ago, it seeks to Islington feed and support the homeless and Barnet The London Non-Religious Pastoral Care marginalized people in Waltham Forest. It Mael Gael Multicultural Community Project team seek to provide emotional support Caritas St Joseph's is a safe place for does so by offering signposting, support to all those who need it, whether this is adults with intellectual disabilities to learn and serving a hot three course meal to in an institution like a hospital or prison, Mael Gael Multicultural - we recognise their gifts and talents and around 50 – 70 people. 7 days a week The in the community for those who are value their unique place in the world, and charity relies solely on their volunteer base Community Project facing hardship or crisis, or as part of our encourage them to participate fully in the and donations from local churches, small response to emergencies and disasters. Ealing life of their community and church. Our businesses, borough schools and individuals. Over the last six years we have trained and Activity Centre offers courses - therapeutic, Established in 2012, Mael Gael is an www.christiankitchen.co.uk accredited 32 highly skilled non-religious vocational or leisure - to over 200 adult Elderly and Youth project based at pastoral carers. students of all faiths or none in Hendon. Norwood Hall in Southall and serves www.nrpsn.org.uk all sections of the community. The www.stjoseph.org.uk Croydon Association for primary object is to help reduce the Pastoral Care in Mental problems associated with loneliness and isolation that afflicts senior citizens in the Health (APCMH) community and to help the elderly look after themselves, stay active and healthy Croydon for as long as possible. Youth projects Since 1992, APCMH has worked to aim to combat crime and behavioural enhance the quality of life, self-respect challenges in young people. and spiritual growth of those affected by www.maelgael.org mental health or emotional difficulties. In doing so, we seek to remove the barriers to acceptance and inclusion which are so often a part of our society. Our mission is to offer a supportive environment by way of a range of group activity sessions and social clubs so that those using our services are encouraged to realise their full potential as individuals and participating members of the community. Caritas St Joseph's www.apcmhcroydon.co.uk 8 9 IMPROVING

Barnet Refugee Service ACCESS TO Barnet Refugee Service Shree Jalaram Mandir (BRS) and Community Centre Barnet Ealing SERVICES BRS is an independent registered charity Shree Jalaram Mandir and Community working in partnership with individuals and Centre is a Hindu place of worship and agencies to improve the quality of life and important communal hub established in Working at the neighbourhood level, projects within this promote the physical, social and mental 2000, it provides for the spiritual needs, category identify people who are often overlooked and well-being of refugees and asylum seekers community activities and help with social and helping to reduce health inequalities, care. There are 14 trustees and an army excluded. These projects work over time to connect people to social exclusion and poverty and enabling of volunteers. The Jalram Activity Centre life-saving public services offered by local councils and larger positive integration. is organised by ladies and runs activities like yoga, exercising, and healthy cooking. www.b-r-s.org.uk charities, as well as offering advice and support. In 2016, BAPA’s Youth was created by younger members of the community who run weekly Bhajan classes for around Testing Faith 30 students. They also organise various events like Diwali Dinner and Dance, Holi Hammersmith and Fulham Colour Festival and Fire Walk. The Testing Faith programme was www.jalarammandir.co.uk developed by NAZ in recognition of the significant role that faith communities can play in HIV prevention, HIV testing, support, reducing Stigma for people living with HIV and treatment. The intervention has been designed to ensure that faith leaders have the right knowledge and skills to engage in HIV prevention and treatment as well as the capacity to support People Living with HIV (PLHIV). The project was developed in partnership with the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH), Christian and Muslim service users and Faith leaders. www.naz.org.uk/testingfaith

10 11 NHSF (UK), London Zone Jagruti: Awaken NHSF (UK) was founded over 25 years ago, aiming to empower Hindu youth to fulfil their potential, step up as leaders and make an active change in society. Since then, NHSF (UK) has delivered an array of activities, campaigns and initiatives across the country, creating a home away from home for students whilst engaging them in key issues affecting society. One such INSPIRING YOUTH event, Jagruti (Awaken) exists to do the same based around the 4 yogs (paths) of Hindu Dharma, encompassing a variety of Sponsored by The London Central Mosque Trust NHSF (UK), London Zone, Jagruti:Awaken activities and workshops, each designed & The Islamic Cultural Centre to explore the different yogs through active Angell Delight participation. Community Project Young people from minority backgrounds are often www.nhsf.org.uk overlooked and may be excluded from civic life. Lambeth Angell Delight Community Project has since Naz Legacy Foundation, Projects within this category work with young people to 2007 been passionately working to make a encourage leadership and participation in their community difference to the lives of residents, tenants Diversity Programme and social groups, particularly young people, Wandsworth and connect them with opportunities beyond their in Angell Town. The ‘One Generation' Young neighbourhoods. Programme seeks to put into action the Each year the Naz Legacy Foundation values and worth of the younger generation; organises a diversity day for young people encourages through services their active from deprived or minority communities. involvement in the community; invests Despite a rise in numbers of visitors to on human capitals of cultural richness museums and galleries, there hasn’t been a and diversity; and fosters a cohesive and significant impact on visitors from ‘socially harmonious community. excluded’ communities. Therefore through the Diversity programme, the Naz Legacy Foundation encourages students from diverse Basics of Sikhi backgrounds to visit cultural institutions in order to enrich them about the heritage of Sunday Katha diverse role models in Britain. Southall, Ealing www.nazlegacy.org Since May 2012, Basics of Sikhi – a Sikh educational charity – have been holding educational talks on the Sikh faith in English every Sunday evening at the Sri Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara in Park Avenue, Southall. This has become known as ‘Sunday Katha’ ('Katha' being the Punjabi word for discourse). What started out as weekly talks to a handful of people has now developed into being an integral part of the weekly calendar for hundreds of local Sikh teenagers. www.basicsofsikhi.com

12 13 TrianGoals Barking and Dagenham TrianGoals was established in 2013 by Jeorgina & Fatuma, it is run out of the Rivergate Centre, Barking. In establishing TrianGoals, they wanted to make a real change in their neighbourhood, creating opportunities to engage residents, both new and established, and young people of all backgrounds. They provide different types of activities to hundreds of local children such as football, tennis, ballet, Zumba and karate, making sure all of their activities are accessible and affordable. They also strive to ensure that throughout Running with the Vision project their work all residents are welcome to Running with participate regardless of their landlords or housing tenure. Moishe House London the Vision Project www.triangoals.co.uk Maternal Aid Moishe House London Enfield The Saturday morning football training Association (Maa) Brent sessions that starting in the spring of 1999 with just a handful of boys has now Ealing Moishe House London (or MoHoLo) is a developed and grown to over 60 children Jewish Community Centre run by 5 people Maa was founded in 2016 by London that regularly attend. As well as the drawn from the community that live in the Medical student, now doctor, Dr. Aqil Saturday training sessions, we run yearly community centre for a couple of years. Jaigirdar. Maa aims to revolutionise football tournaments and community It is 12 years old. We run 7+ events every maternal healthcare in the developing events. We promote encouragement, month for young Jewish people (between world, by providing medicine, resources team skills and good character and do not the ages of 20 and 32) to observe Jewish and education to mothers and young allow any of the children to demonstrate holidays, festivals and culture. Take part women in developing countries, in hopes negative attitudes towards one another. in Jewish learning and social events and of improving maternal healthcare and We have introduced a Players Life Skills support the community around them. empowering the next generation. Each League which recognises team work year a group of volunteers from the UK www.facebook.com/moholonw2 and good attitude as well as skill. The set up health camps with follow up care project has also been listed as a flagship being given every two months after. community youth project on the Kick It Maa empowers its team by providing Out website. young adults with leadership positions www.communityheartlondon.org/ within an established organisation, a running-with-a-vision/4549159062 unique opportunity which allows them to develop into future leaders within their communities. Trian Goals www.maacharity.org

14 15 Barnet Multi-Faith Forum Conservative Muslim Forum Barnet Westminster BMFF has been in existence since The Conservative Muslim Forum (CMF) 2004 and provides a multi-faith forum was established in 2005 by Lord Sheikh for the Borough of Barnet based on a with the primary aim of engaging with commitment of respect and tolerance Muslims of all persuasions and encourage through discussion, communication and them to participate in political life at all collaboration. Its aims are to provide levels, from grassroots to Parliament. knowledge and understanding for the One of the other main objective is to integrity of each other's beliefs, represent work to maintain and build bridges with and demonstrate to the residents of all communities and religions within INTERFAITH Barnet the peaceful co-existence that the UK. Over the years CMF have done exists between the Borough's faith tremendous work to bring communities communities, ensure that values of together and not always from a political freedom of expression are maintained angle. CMF hold regular events at the and safeguarded and actively promote House of Lords on education, health, RELATIONS community cohesion and inclusion. interfaith relations and other community issues impacting the lives of people of www.barnetmultifaithforum.org London’s neighbourhoods are multi-faith spaces Muslim faith as well as other faiths or none. www.conservativemuslimforum.com where people with different faiths and beliefs Bexley Interfaith Forum share the same public spaces and services. Projects within this category build bridges across Bexley Ramadan Tent Project The Bexley Interfaith Forum was – Open Iftar communities and create hubs that are open to all. relaunched in 2017 to help build and maintain good relations and greater Camden understanding between different At Ramadan Tent Project, we believe in communities of faith and belief, to provide bringing communities together to better a forum for discussion of matters of mutual understand each other. We envisage a concern, and to organise and promote world where all people belong and live inter-faith activities. The Bexley Interfaith together in harmony. Open Iftar is the Forum meets about once every 3 months UK’s largest annual community event at a different venue – often at a worship in Ramadan and the flagship event of centre – and seeks to include and hear the Ramadan Tent Project. Open Iftar invites voices of all faith traditions present at each people of all faiths and none over free of its gatherings, usually 25-30 people food to celebrate the breaking of fast attend each meeting and the forum has a (iftar) across all backgrounds. Sharing membership of 163. wholesome meals from across the globe, www.bexleyinterfaithforum.org listening to inspiring talks from world renowned speakers and engaging in deep conversations with people you meet for the first time. www.ramadantentproject.com www.openiftar.co.uk

16 17 Forgotten Heroes 14-19 Foundation Hammersmith and Fulham The Forgotten Heroes 14-19 Foundation was created in 2012 to unveil the untold friendships of Muslim soldiers and labours who fought alongside the allied forces in WW1. We traced and identified more than 850,000 documents related to the Allied Muslim contributions. Among the PEACE AND personal diaries are numerous heart- warming accounts of Muslim, Christian and Jewish soldiers fighting united, side- Power the Fight by-side; sharing their experiences and accommodating each other’s cultures, Power the Fight RECONCILIATION music, gastronomy and religious practices, despite the difficult conditions in the Lewisham trenches. We have exhibited our research In 2016 following the murder of teenager across London. Crime and violent attacks send a message of exclusion and tear Myron Yarde, Ben Lindsay started the fabric of London’s communities. Projects within this category www.muslimsinww1.com gathering people from within and outside www.unknownfallen.com the local church to reflect, pray and support those affected by violence, bring communities together to create a space for dialogue for anyone in stand against violence and promote peaceful relations. the community concerned about youth Imaan LGBTQI Muslim violence. This collective response inspired Support the beginnings of Power the Fight. Power The Fight exists to empower Tower Hamlets communities to end youth violence. For this to become a reality, communities will Imaan is a charity that supports LGBTQI need to work together and learn from one Muslims. Founded in London in 1999, another. Our key aims are to educate, we campaign to ensure that no LGBTQI equip, engage and enable communities Muslim person in Britain feels excluded to be the answer to the issue of youth from their family, their faith or their violence the UK. communities. Imaan is a small, volunteer- led charity, led by and working for www.powerthefight.org.uk LGBTQI Muslims; we aim to represent the breadth of the Islamic faith and the range of identities and narratives of the LGBTQ community and our allies. We are the longest running LGBTQI Muslim organisation in the world and are the founders & organisers of Imaan Fest: Muslim Pride. www.imaanlondon.wordpress.com

18 19 African Portuguese Speaking Community PROMOTING Newham The APSC work in areas of London with a strong presence of African Portuguese Speaking Communities to provide a INCLUSION local network group that encourages and enables the APSC families to participate more effectively with the wider community. APSC is ran by 23 volunteers who are natives of Angola, Cape Verde, Guinea- Londoners may face misunderstanding, isolation or Bissau, Mozambique, São Tomé and exclusion because of their faith or belief. They may be Príncipe and Guinea Bissau. Our primary aim is to promote cultural heritage further excluded, due to other aspects of their identities and develop the community through (e.g. ethnicity, gender, sexuality, class, age and ability) – empowerment and active participation. and this discrimination may take place within faith groups www.africanpsc.com or wider society. Projects within this category work at the intersection between faith/belief and other aspects of BARKA UK identity – creating inclusive spaces. Redbridge Barka UK’s Reconnection Project specialises in providing support to nationals from Central and Eastern Europe who are homeless in the borough of Redbridge, London. The project is based at the Welcome Centre in Ilford. Barka UK was established in June 2007. It is affiliated to the Barka Foundation for Mutual Help, which for thirty years has been working in Poland with excluded and vulnerable members of community. www.barkauk.org

20 21 Speak Street Yog Foundation Camden Bexley Speak Street provides fun social Yog Foundation is a charitable community learning for newcomers to the country service group inspired by the Hindu (migrants and refugees). English as a principle of 'seva' or selfless service. Our Second Language lessons - offered in vision is a humane, harmonious and happy a welcoming environment (not the old society empowered by a deeper purpose fashion chalk-and-talk). Speak Street and spiritual wellbeing. As a group of operates at various locations such as art dedicated volunteers, we run activities to galleries, schools, mosques, churches enable these values to be more accessible and community centres; wherever there's and relevant to children and youth. We are a need, Speak Street is happy to help. also passionate about servicing the needs of the wider community be it the elderly, www.speak-street.com disabled or disadvantaged. Our initiatives include weekly Moral Values School, Health & Wellbeing seminars, charitable events and traditional Hindu festival celebrations - all free of charge. www.yog.foundation Black and Muslim in Britain Black and Muslim Sarbat in Britain Islington Camden Sarbat is a volunteer led group addressing LGBT issues from a Sikh perspective. Black and Muslim in Britain, an online We empower our members to encourage series exploring stories and dialogue discussions, tackle homophobia and around being Black and Muslim in Britain. build bridges within and beyond their Led by Sakinah Le Noir, Mohamed communities. We have developed our open Mohamed, Saraiya Bah and Shakirah minds programme at addressing mental Akinwale, Black and Muslim in Britain health among LGBT Sikhs. We continue was initiated in October 2016 with the to build spaces where LGBT Sikhs meet intention of addressing the lack of faith each other, build allies and find support. representation during Black History Month We want our volunteers to develop and in the UK. The series aims to echo the provide useful resources about the Sikh voices of Black Muslims around the UK perspective on LGBT issues not only for from different ages and backgrounds our community but those outside it. who could relate and empathise with a plethora of stories, struggles, rich history, www.sarbat.net challenges, culture, politics and family traditions that represent the beauty of being Black and Muslim in Britain. www.facebook.com/ blackandmusliminbritain

Yog Foundation

22 23 SUPPORTING WOMEN All Women's Network Sponsored by the Mayor of London All Women’s Network Hear Women Foundation Barking and Dagenham Westminster Inspired by the Mayor of London’s #BehindEveryGreatCity All Women’s Network Meet Up Project Founded in 2008, Hear Women's centre aims to help disadvantaged women to has provided a safe space for East and campaign, this category will celebrate the achievements tackle isolation, improve their life chances North African women to meet and discuss and contributions of women, from all walks of life, who by providing opportunities for enterprise, issues related to health and well-being, self-employment, new skills, community addressing sexual violence and making make London great. This category will recognise the work participation and improved lifestyle a livelihood. Underlying all is the goal of projects which support women to make change in choices. We are a multi-cultural, multi- to advance women’s full and effective faith women's group based in Barking participation at all levels of political, their community through providing education, advocacy, & Dagenham. Our activities are open to economic and public life. As a group they friendship and a wider array of services. people of all faiths (and none) and we are supported families affected by Grenfell pleased to welcome participants from tragedy. HRH Prince Harry of Sussex was all around the world, from many different an official visit to our Cook and Talk project cultures and backgrounds. at Al Manaar Centre in 2017, and highly commended their work. www.hearwomen.org

Hear Women Foundation

24 25 Roshni-2 Project Selam Conversation Waltham Forest Croydon ROSHNI-2 is a National research project Selam English Classes began five years which aims to test a culturally adapted ago, when two women decided to start therapy called ‘The Positive Health teaching English to the most needy in their Programme’. Postnatal depression rates community. They decided to focus on are higher in British South Asian (BSA) women, often the group most ostracized mothers and there is a real treatment gap. and neglected in this area. Our classes Farah Ahmed has been working in London now run three times a week, with a team of to engage BSA mother with amazing 10 volunteer helpers, and about 30 women results from her Roshni-2 team. 1 in 3 BSA come each time. We are based at a church mothers screened have shown high stress in South Croydon and West Croydon levels and in London they have already Refugee Centre, and childcare is provided. randomized 13 groups into the trial. If the We are proud that our women not only Hillingdon Asian Women's Group intervention is deemed ‘Cost effective’, it learn English, but grow in self-confidence may eventually be offered by clinicians to and build cross-cultural friendships. BSA mothers who need the help. Hillingdon Asian Muslimah Sports www.facebook.com/selamenglishclass Women’s Group Association www.Roshni2.com Hillingdon Redbridge Women in Mosques Hillingdon Asian Women’s Group over 40 MSA's aims are to improve physical and Development Programme years of working within local community mental well-being for women and girls and still deliver quality workshop/ training to from the BAME background by creating Tower Hamlets communities HAWG actively supports the pathways into participation, volunteering, "The “Women in Mosques Development betterment of the local community of ethnic and coaching. Our projects have benefited Programme” (WIMDP) run by the minority women by providing opportunities over 1000 local women since its inception Muslim Council of Britain (MCB), the for members to access employment in 2014 through providing opportunities UK’s largest and most diverse national skills, education & training, information in sports such as Badminton, Football, Muslim umbrella body. It is an annual and general advice on various matter Fencing, Basketball and many more. leadership development programme that domestic Violence, family issues and leisure www.muslimahsports.org.uk Roshni-2 Project is designed to accelerate the development pursuits. The organisation also promotes of upcoming talented female leaders of and distributes information on welfare, all ages to become the mosque trustees, health matters and provides quality of life committee members, volunteers and assistance, in particular to combat isolation Nisa-Nashim centre managers of the future. Participants HAWG has taken various positive steps to Camden benefit from bespoke training sessions improve its services in Hillingdon and target and webinars, as well as mentoring with more women to help them to achieve a Nisa-Nashim - which means women experienced male and female mosque better economic and social life. in Arabic and Hebrew - is a women’s leaders and volunteers. network, led by Jewish and Muslim women, working to inspire and drive social www.mcb.org.uk/women-in-mosques change through mobilising our women and by doing it together. We have 14 groups in London (over half of our national network is here as is our head office), each co-chaired by a Jewish and a Muslim woman. In almost all cases the women did not previously know each other, in a society where these two communities rarely meet. www.nisanashim.org

26 27 This year 8 individuals whose nominations were deemed exceptional have been profiled.

Iatedal Jawad Ruth Finkel Mrs Jawad has been the lead Link teacher Ruth has been the Interfaith lead at North INSPIRATIONAL at Al-Sadiq and Al-Zahra School in Brent West London Jewish Day School for about for the Faith & Belief Forum’s School Linking 10 years, and specifically has led on the Programme for four years. Iatedal has Linking partnerships with Islamia Primary worked incredibly hard to create strong School and Al-Sadiq & Al-Zahra Schools, relationships with North West London establishing strong and fruitful relations INDIVIDUALS Jewish Day School. She has regularly with both those communities. She strives organised a range of exciting Link days to broaden her students’ knowledge and to venues such as interfaith centres and understanding of each other's faith and to London is full of inspirational individuals, people who make libraries, going above and beyond to dismantle notions of the "other”. She seizes create a varied and immersive programme every opportunity at Link days to empower a lasting contribution to the life of our city. Individuals recognised for her students. Moreover, has remained her students, ensure they are learning in this category inspire others by their acts of public service which committed to addressing and supporting and open up space for their curiosity and parents who have concerns about the misconceptions. She puts her whole heart are matched by their attitude and value, exemplifying London as programme – advocating for the importance into this programme and is quoted saying a welcoming place for people of all faiths and beliefs. of interfaith and increased understanding; it’s the most important thing she’s ever done of love and tolerance between different in her life. communities. Inspirational Individuals who are Rev Herbert Aparanga celebrated in this category are: Father James Leachman The Greenwich and Bexley Hospice run a Father James Leachman is a monk at the Nepalese Engagement project. The Hospice Afsana Salik Fatima Khasimi Ealing Abbey Monastery which has been is free and open to all but as Hospices are heavily impacted by historical child abuse not part of Nepalese culture, along with Alison Jones Haider Alkhateeb within the Catholic Church and specifically language difficulties, the community was at Ealing. He decided to focus on healing unaware of how we could help. Rev Herbert Aoife Minnock Ifraah Samatar a community (his community) in trauma, Aparanga, has led the project – going out isolated, marginalised and in shock. This into the community and talking to people, Baljit Kaur Baura Josephine MacKay is the legacy that he wants to leave this instead of waiting for them to come to community, to bring about healing and us. This project has really benefited from Benji Rosenberg Pastor Chris Kapnisis create spaces for restorative justice. Herbert’s tenacity and caring. The project James asked Act for Change and the Deep goes beyond faith to the meaning of life and Bibi Khan Democracy Forum which is affiliated with death, how different cultures view this and it, to support this work and run monthly how we can help each other. storytelling and facilitated conversations, around experiences of abuse, to start bringing the community together.

28 29 Dr Harjinder Kaur Shailen Patel RECOGNISED PROJECTS Harjinder is a great believer that ‘girls are Shailen Patel began volunteering at one of the most powerful agents of change Harrow Care Plus at the age of sixteen. in the world’ and has worked for over He quickly gained enough confidence For services to and for faith and belief communities fifteen years to improve the lives of girls to teach and support pensioners from and women. Harjinder’s vision is to engage various backgrounds in a sheltered home men and boys for gender equality. To that where Harrow Care Plus run monthly end, she undertook a PhD on South Asian activities. Shailen has attended the shelter men’s attitudes toward women and their home fortnightly for 2 years and has #350SikhWomen Faithful Friends, Institute of Jainology understanding and justification for domestic confidently made a difference in making Westminster Forest Gate Barking and Dagenham violence. This research is ground-breaking the marginalised group of Gujarati Hindu thesikhnetwork.com Newham jainology.org as it is the first ever study undertaken with elders who faced barriers in communication faithfulfriends.org.uk South Asian men in London. To make a real because he speaks Gujarati too. He is a Al Madina Mosque Interfaith Matters impact, she is using her research to work dedicated volunteer and a very mature and "Eid @ Eastbury" FECycle Barnet with practitioners to tailor interventions to brilliant role model for others. Barking and Dagenham Waltham Forest interfaithmatters.org better assist South Asian women who have barkingmosque.org.uk

experienced domestic violence. Harrow Care Plus Interfaith Remembrance Pastor Isaac Attram Board of Deputies Harrow Marking Armistice Interfaith Conference harrowcareplus.org Centenary Ani Barbara Shannon Pastor Isaac Attram is a Pentecostal Brent Brent Minister and a youth worker who for many bod.org.uk Helping Hands Foodbank londonmandir.baps. Ani Barbara Shannon, a Tibetan Buddhist years has been committed to support and Lewisham org/2018/11/interfaith- nun based at Jamyang Buddhist Centre, develop young people from disadvantaged Coffee Afrique goodpeter.org.uk/helping- remembrance-marking- Kennington, has for many years supported backgrounds. Following a tragic death of Hackney hands-foodbank armistice-centenary vulnerable and at risk people in the his son in 2007 who was a victim of knife coffeeafrique.co.uk community in a variety of roles. Most crime, he set up a Youth Rally Mission, an Hindu Forum of Britain Islamic Integration recently she has set up a regular Death Cafe organisation with a mission of getting young Community Concord Brent Community Centre which meets monthly and allows people people out of crime and offering them a safe Barking and Dagenham hfb.org.uk Hounslow from all sections of the community to meet space where they can grow and develop communityconcord.com iiccuk.org together and support each other to discuss their dreams and aspirations. Hindu Lawyers this important but still very taboo subject. Community Fun Day Association Janomot Newsweekly Ani Barbara also has supported many Barnet Camden Tower Hamlets people at home during their final stages of stjamesnewbarnet.com/ hindulawyers.org janomot.com life, helping to organise their funeral and community/fun-day sort out their affairs when they have no Hindu Swayamsevak Juliet Jewellery immediate family. E4 Eat or Heat Sangh UK [HSS UK] Lewisham Waltham Forest Temple in Woolwich facebook.com/ eatorheat.org Greenwich groups/203942553628613 hssuk.org Faith in Schools Konverse Dance Crews Newham Hope Community School Barking and Dagenham faithinschools.co.uk Bexley Instagram: hopecommunityschool.org konversedancecrews Faith, Identity and Belonging workshops Humdum UK Lewisham Interfaith ran by Paddington Arts Barking and Dagenham Forum Westminster Instagram: humdumuk Lewisham paddingtonarts.org.uk lewishaminterfaith Illumination Women’s forum.org.uk Ministry Enfield rccenfield.org

30 31 London Humanist Choir SAFE Voice of Salam Islington (Safety Across Croydon WAYS TO STAY london.humanistchoir.org Faith and Ethnic) voiceofsalam.com Communities Project Mums on a Mission Hammersmith and Fulham BAPS Charity South INVOLVED WITH F&BF Barking and Dagenham standingtogether.org.uk/ London VSK Project Instagram: local-partnership/safety- Croydon Mumsonamission_ across-faith-and-ethnic- safe-communities-project Wailing Mothers As a project or individual celebrated at the London Faith and Belief Community Awards Mothers Club Lambeth you now gain access to a network of over 300 faith and belief organisations working International Sasana Ramsi Myanmar across London. To encourage and maintain the relationships started at tonight’s event, Bexley Buddhist Centre Women of Walworth F&BF have created the following events and workshops exclusively for this network. facebook.com/ Barnet Southwark groups/248442640654 sasanaramsiuk.org/about

Muslim Women Collective Sikh Press Association Interfaith Toolkit launch Inclusion workshops Tower Hamlets Langar Week 2018 Thursday 16 January 2020, 2pm-4pm As a member of our network, you gain muslimwomenscollective. Hounslow access to the Faith & Belief Forum’s org.uk sikhpa.com Please join us for the launch of a new community workshops to support your toolkit designed exclusively for the network, engagement with diverse communities. Muswell Hill Synagogue SKS Swaminarayan Working Together for a More Connected Haringey Temple SKS London: a Toolkit of Interfaith Skills. There are limited spaces on each workshop. muswellhillsynagogue.org.uk Lewisham RSVP to Siobhán Anderson, Join other community leaders for eltemple.uk [email protected] networking over afternoon tea, and to share Noa Girls knowledge on topics including Dialogue, Barnet Soul Aid Collaboration, and Funding. noagirls.co.uk Havering Inclusive Events for People of Different soulaid.org.uk All attendees will receive a free printed copy Faiths & Beliefs The Open Table of the toolkit. Monday 27 January 2020, 2.30pm-4.30pm Tower Hamlets Taraki Chai in the City: RSVP to Siobhán Anderson, What does it mean to host an event which stgeorgeintheeast.withtank. London [email protected] meets the needs of people of different faiths com/welcoming-our- Westminster and beliefs? Explore practical ideas around neighbours/ taraki.uk outreach and communication, dietary requirements, prayer spaces, and bigger Outreach Ealing The Garden Project, picture considerations. Learn from F&BF’s Ealing at L'Arche London 20+ years of running events for people of outreachealing.org Lambeth different faiths and beliefs and take away larchelondon.org.uk an action plan for your future events. Pilates Gold Harrow Tiddlywinks roxeth.com Redbridge Supporting LGBT+ People of Faith adbaptistchurch.org.uk/ Tue 28 Jan 2020, 2.30pm-4.30pm Reroute tiddlywinks.html Harrow How can we best support LGBT+ Instagram: reroute2018 TORCH people within our communities to Southwark overcome challenges they face? Explore Riverside Muslim oasiswaterloo.org/torch personal stories of LGBT+ people from Association different faith backgrounds, build your Barking and Dagenham Troan charity confidence approaching conversations riversidemuslim Newham about LGBT+ and faith, and gain new association.com troancharity.co.uk ideas for scenarios that might arise in your work. Take away a guidance pack with further ideas and next steps.

32 33 SPONSORS CREDITS

Tonight’s event would not be possible without the The London Faith & Belief Community Thank you to all who nominated generous support of our sponsors. Awards would not have been possible projects for the awards. Without you without the continued support and this event would not have been possible. F&BF would like to thank the following organisations guidance of Deputy Lieutenants who Particular thanks must be given to: and foundations for their kind donations supporting sit on Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of the projects awarded at tonight’s ceremony. BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Greater London’s Council on Faith. London Particular thanks must be given to Barking and Dagenham Council Bushra Nasir CBE DL, who sat as Chair on the steering committee from the inception City Sikhs of this event and also acted as Chair of F&BF Youth Council the Judging Panel. Thanks must also be given to Dr Sheila Gewolb DL, Rev Nims Hindu Forum for Britain Obunge MBE and Babulal Sethia DL who Humanists UK offered their time and expertise as key members of the steering committee. Jain Centre We are grateful for the support of Justice, Peace and the Sir Kenneth Olisa OBE, Her Majesty’s Integrity of Creation Department, Lord-Lieutenant of Greater London The Diocese of Southwark and Dr David Dangoor DL, Chair of London Buddhist Centre Her Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Greater London’s Council on Faith. Westminster Cathedral Thank you to the Judging Panel Babulal Thank you to the F&BF staff and Sethia DL, Dr Sheila Gewolb DL, interns for all your support in Dr Mustafa Abu Lisan Ben Shapiro, making the event a success. Penny Appeal Siobhán Anderson and Ianti Stergiou Thank you to The Greater London Lieutenancy office for its invaluable support, especially to Mr Joe Baker Esq (Clerk), Mrs Yvette Atori (Deputy Clerk), Rachel Campbell (Assistant) and Colleen Harris DL. Thank you to the Royal Society of Medicine for providing the venue and hospitality for tonight’s event at the beautiful One Wimpole Street.

34 35 Who we are

The Faith & Belief Forum has worked for over 20 years to build good relations between people of all faiths and beliefs, and to create a society where difference is celebrated.

We create spaces in schools, universities, workplaces and the wider community where people can engage with questions of belief and identity and meet people different from themselves.

Our inclusive approach welcomes everyone – whether you’re an Atheist, Buddhist, Christian, Hindu, Jew, Muslim, Zoroastrian, or identify with any other belief. The Faith & Belief Forum believes that intolerance has no place in our communities and that diversity adds value to society. faithbeliefforum.org @faithbelieforum

How you can support us

At the Faith & Belief Forum we believe that everyone should have the chance to interact positively with people from different backgrounds – one day everyone will feel able to do it, and with your help and our support, that day will come sooner.

To find out more about how you can support us please visit faithbeliefforum.org/support-us